The prominent figure known for advocating for civil rights through legislation was Martin Luther King Jr. His leadership during the Civil Rights Movement in the 1950s and 1960s led to significant legislative changes, including the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. King emphasized nonviolent protest and civil disobedience, inspiring numerous demonstrations that highlighted issues of racial injustice. His powerful speeches, such as the iconic "I Have a Dream," resonated widely and contributed to shaping public opinion on civil rights. His legacy continues to influence civil rights movements around the world.